T cell receptor alpha joining 38 (TRAJ38)

T cell receptor alpha joining 38 (TRAJ38) is one of the J (joining) gene segments that contributes to the diversity of the T cell receptor (TCR) alpha chain in humans. The TCR is a heterodimeric protein complex expressed on the surface of T lymphocytes, composed most commonly of one alpha and one beta chain. Diversity in the TCR alpha chain is generated through somatic recombination of multiple variable (V), joining (J), and constant (C) gene segments. TRAJ38 is specifically a J segment located in the TCR alpha locus and provides part of the genetic code required for the antigen recognition region of the TCR alpha chain. TRAJ38, by itself, is not a functional therapeutic target, enzyme, transporter, or receptor, but is rather a genetic element necessary for creating the highly variable TCR repertoire critical for adaptive immune function. It is not directly implicated in disease or as a biomarker, nor is it the target of any drugs. TRAJ38 is best classified as a gene segment used during T cell development to ensure a broad recognition capacity of the T cell population.

Other names

TRAJ38T cell receptor alpha joining 38